Ford, Volkswagen Slated to Detail Global Alliance Tomorrow

After months of speculation, Ford Motor Company and Volkswagen AG are expected to formally announce a new global alliance Tuesday at the Detroit Auto Show. Executives from both automakers confirmed bits and pieces of the alliance at their respective debuts.

Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford told reporters, “The talks are going really well. We’re going to have more to say later this week. Stay tuned,” according to a Detroit Free Pressreport. The great-grandson to the company’s founder when on say the two parties are still in final discussions.

Volkswagen CEO Herbert Diess made similar remarks during today’s reveal of the 2020 VW Passat, stating “We love to work together with the Ford guys. They are really serious and professionals.”

Diess expanded on his comments by explaining that VW is a very big car company globally, but not so big when it comes to commercial vehicles and trucks. The comment could be construed as a confirmation that the two automakers will collaborate regarding commercial vehicles, confirming recent rumors regarding the alliance talks.

While alliance talks allegedly commenced with discussions about commercial vehicle collaboration, the talks have reportedly advanced to include collaborating on autonomous and electric vehicle technology as well.

The two automakers will make a joint announcement tomorrow. The announcement will be made by Diess and Ford CEO Jim Hackett.

About Nick Saporito

AutoVerdict Senior Editor Nick Saporito began writing about cars at age 13. Nick ran a couple of automotive enthusiast sites for several years, before taking some time off to focus on his career and education. By day he's a marketing executive in the telecom world and by night he hangs out here at AV. You'll find him focusing on tech, design and the industry's future.